Heuer Autavia 1163 GMT - Mark 2 'Red Needles' Tropical Dial 42mm Circa 1970s

Heuer Autavia 1163 GMT Mark 2: A Classic Chronograph with Racing and Aviation Roots

The Heuer Autavia 1163 GMT Mark 2 is one of the most desirable vintage chronographs produced by Heuer (now TAG Heuer), representing a fascinating intersection of motorsport heritage and functional innovation. Released during the golden era of chronograph development in the late 1960s and early 1970s, this model is particularly noted for its bold design, GMT complication, and strong association with motor racing. The Autavia line, one of Heuer’s most successful and enduring collections.

History of the Heuer Autavia

The Autavia line made its debut not as a wristwatch but as a dashboard timer in 1933. The name itself is a portmanteau of “AUTomobile” and “AVIAtion,” reflecting Heuer’s intention to produce high-precision timers for racing cars and aircraft. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Heuer established itself as a leader in producing durable, accurate dashboard timers that became essential tools for racers and pilots alike.

In 1962, under the leadership of Jack Heuer, the Autavia name was reintroduced as a wrist-worn chronograph. Jack Heuer recognised the potential of creating a line of watches specifically targeted at motorsport enthusiasts, combining legibility, durability, and functionality. The decision to resurrect the Autavia name as a wristwatch was intended to capitalise on the brand’s reputation within the racing community.

The first Autavia wristwatches featured rotating bezels and chronograph functions, designed with drivers and pilots in mind. The rotating bezel allowed for easy tracking of elapsed time, while the chronograph function provided essential timing capabilities. The model quickly gained popularity due to its rugged construction and sporty aesthetic.

Throughout the 1960s, Heuer continued to refine the Autavia line, introducing various references with different case shapes, bezel types, and dial layouts. The model became a favourite among professional drivers and amateur enthusiasts alike, cementing its status as a go-to tool watch for motorsport.

The development of the automatic chronograph in 1969 was a pivotal moment for Heuer and the Autavia line. Working as part of the Chronomatic Group alongside Breitling, Hamilton-Buren, and Dubois-Depraz, Heuer successfully launched the Caliber 11, one of the world’s first automatic chronograph movements.

The introduction of the Caliber 11 movement led to the creation of the 1163 series, which included several variations such as the standard Autavia, the Autavia Siffert (named after Formula 1 driver Jo Siffert), and the Autavia GMT. The Autavia 1163 GMT Mark 2, in particular, remains one of the most iconic models of this era.

The Heuer Autavia 1163 GMT Mark 2

The Heuer Autavia 1163 GMT Mark 2 was introduced in the early 1970s as a continuation of Heuer’s innovative approach to chronograph design. While the standard Autavia models were focused primarily on racing, the GMT variant offered additional functionality for those who needed to track multiple time zones—an essential feature for pilots, travellers, and international racing teams.

Design Characteristics

The 1163 GMT Mark 2 is instantly recognisable thanks to its distinctive combination of colours, bold dial layout, and robust case construction.

• Case: The watch features a tonneau-shaped stainless steel case measuring approximately 42mm in diameter. Its large size was intended to enhance readability and presence on the wrist, particularly during high-speed activities.
• Bezel: A bi-directional rotating bezel with a 24-hour scale, designed for tracking a second time zone. The bezel’s black and red colour scheme provides excellent contrast and legibility.
• Dial: The dial is predominantly black, with white subdials located at 3 o’clock (30-minute counter) and 9 o’clock (12-hour counter). The bright red GMT hand, designed to indicate a second time zone, stands out sharply against the dark dial.
• Hands: The hour and minute hands are white with luminous inserts for enhanced readability. The central seconds hand is bright red, complementing the GMT hand and adding visual appeal.
• Crystal: Acrylic, with a domed profile providing excellent clarity and a pleasing vintage aesthetic.

The dial layout of the 1163 GMT Mark 2 is similar to that of the standard Autavia models, but the addition of the GMT hand and 24-hour bezel gives it added functionality and a more complex appearance.

Movement: Caliber 11 and Caliber 12

The Heuer Autavia 1163 GMT Mark 2 was initially powered by the Caliber 11, the same groundbreaking automatic chronograph movement introduced by Heuer in 1969. This movement was developed through a partnership with Breitling, Hamilton-Buren, and Dubois-Depraz, utilising a modular construction with a micro-rotor for automatic winding.

• Frequency: 19,800 vibrations per hour (vph)
• Power Reserve: Approximately 42 hours
• Jewels: 17
• Chronograph Functions: 30-minute counter, 12-hour counter, central chronograph seconds hand
• GMT Function: Dedicated red hand for tracking a second time zone

In the early 1970s, Heuer upgraded the Autavia GMT series to include the Caliber 12, an improved version of the Caliber 11. The Caliber 12 operated at a higher frequency of 21,600 vph, resulting in greater accuracy and improved reliability. Watches featuring the Caliber 12 are generally considered more desirable due to their enhanced performance.

Conclusion

The Heuer Autavia 1163 GMT Mark 2 is a classic chronograph that exemplifies the innovative spirit of Heuer during the 1960s and 1970s. Its development as part of the Autavia line highlights the brand’s commitment to creating functional, stylish, and precise watches for motorsport enthusiasts, pilots, and travellers alike.

With its bold design, sophisticated movement, and rich history, the 1163 GMT Mark 2 remains one of the most significant and collectible chronographs ever produced by Heuer.

Case is flawless. It is NOS condition. The band is an aftermarket leather band.

• Dial is an excellent tropical example. Hands are in great condition.